President Johnson Takes Oath, Shapes Supreme Court on Nov. 22, 1963

On November 22, 1963, Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th President of the United States following the assassination of John F. Kennedy. This pivotal moment not only marked a significant transition in leadership but also set the stage for critical changes in the Supreme Court, as Johnson would later appoint two influential Justices: Abe Fortas and Thurgood Marshall.

Johnson’s Immediate Response to a National Crisis

The oath of office took place on Air Force One at Dallas Love Field Airport, emphasizing the tension and urgency of the situation. Johnson, who had been serving as Vice President, quickly had to navigate the nation through its grief and uncertainty. His immediate actions would define his presidency and influence the judicial landscape of the United States.

In the years following his swearing-in, Johnson focused on a domestic agenda that included civil rights and social reforms. His appointments to the Supreme Court were integral to his vision of a more equitable society. Abe Fortas, who had been a close advisor to Johnson, was appointed in 1965. Fortas brought a progressive approach to the Court, advocating for the rights of individuals and the importance of civil liberties.

A Landmark Appointment: Thurgood Marshall

The most notable appointment made by Johnson came in 1967 when he nominated Thurgood Marshall as the first African American Justice on the Supreme Court. Marshall’s contributions to civil rights law, particularly as the chief counsel for the NAACP, positioned him as a transformative figure in American history. His confirmation heralded a new era in which the Court would address issues related to race and equality more directly.

Both Fortas and Marshall would leave lasting legacies on the Supreme Court, shaping landmark decisions and advancing the cause of justice in various ways. Johnson’s influence on the judiciary was profound, as he aimed to reflect the changing values of the American public during a time of social upheaval.

The events of November 22, 1963, are a reminder of how political leadership can pivot in times of crisis and how such changes can reverberate through the judicial system for generations. As the nation reflects on this significant date, the impact of Johnson’s presidency continues to resonate, particularly through the lens of Supreme Court decisions that have shaped modern America.